Downsend School
Leatherhead, Surrey · KT22 8TJ
Downsend is a forward-thinking independent day school in suburban Leatherhead, Surrey, serving pupils from age 2 through Sixth Form across a cohesive nursery-to-18 pathway. Under new Executive Head Rebecca Tear (joining September 2026), the school emphasises 'Future Skills'—a creative, problem-solving approach designed to prepare young people for an evolving world. With 634 pupils across senior years, it combines academic rigour with innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, positioning itself as a school that celebrates ambition and change.
- →Integrated nursery-to-sixth-form pathway within the Cognita family, ensuring continuity of care and values
- →Explicit focus on future-ready skills, problem-solving, and innovation alongside traditional academic excellence
- →Experienced new leadership (Rebecca Tear, former head of Badminton School and Fulham School) bringing vision for transformation
- →Day-school flexibility combined with strong pastoral culture and enrichment offer in accessible Surrey location
Who thrives here
Downsend suits curious, ambitious pupils who thrive in collaborative, creative learning environments and parents seeking a modern, forward-thinking independent school with continuity from early years through university entrance. Families valuing innovation, problem-solving, and 'future skills' alongside traditional academic achievement will find the school's ethos particularly appealing.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
1 Leatherhead Road
Leatherhead, Surrey
KT22 8TJ
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How do you get into Downsend School?
Downsend School admits pupils at 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Downsend School's exam results?
At Downsend School, 35% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Downsend School a boarding school?
Downsend School is a day school in Leatherhead and does not offer boarding.
What is Downsend School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Downsend School “Excellent” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Modern, forward-thinking approach to education and innovation
✓Experienced new leadership with clear vision for school transformation
✓Integrated pathway from nursery through sixth form with continuity of values
✓Emphasis on developing future-ready skills and problem-solving ability
✓Creative, immersive learning environment with strong enrichment offer
Common concerns
!School not yet Ofsted-inspected, so independent external quality assurance unavailable
!Transition period under new head (September 2026) may involve cultural and operational changes
!Limited publicly available information on academic outcomes, destinations, and specific pastoral provision